Pink Coral Bells
heuchera rubescens
Also known as: ["Rock Geranium","Pinks"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to North America, known for its attractive foliage and delicate flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus: | Heuchera |
| Botanical Name: | Heuchera rubescens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or rocky soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; more intensive pruning every 2–3 years to rejuvenate growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade (4–6 hours of morning sun); tolerates full sun with adequate moisture but prefers shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moving from shade; protect from intense afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon rays; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize lightly in spring; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess nutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of root clumps; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Early spring or early fall when the plant is actively growing but not under stress.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth typically appears within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; maintain humidity with plastic covers; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim back leggy stems; divide overcrowded clumps if needed.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; thin out crowded stems to improve air circulation; shape the plant to maintain form.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Remove dead or damaged foliage; cut back flowering stems; thin crowded areas; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenating growth and soil health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water begins to drain from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; water early in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and fall; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter; increase to twice weekly in summer if rainfall is scarce.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture and improve soil structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or browning edges in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and damage tender foliage; prolonged freezing may cause root rot if soil is waterlogged.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter to insulate roots; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; heat stress weakens the plant over time.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun hours; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid winter feeding; dilute liquid fertilizers.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if applied monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHeuchera rubescens is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHeuchera rubescens is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHeuchera rubescens is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Heuchera rubescens?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7-10 days, depending on climate.
Q: Does Heuchera rubescens attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Q: Can Heuchera rubescens grow in full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate morning sun; avoid intense afternoon sun.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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